Fun & Exciting Things to Do in Singapore This September, Under S$50

#1: A MID-AUTUMN ODYSSEY BY EU YAN SANG

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with Eu Yan Sang over delicious mooncakes, fragrant brewed tea, and more. This event takes place at two locations: Orchard Paragon on 7 September 2024 and Takashimaya on 14 September 2024, both from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Tickets are priced at S$28 for Eu Rewards Members and S$48 for Non-Members.

Grab a friend or family member to join in this delightful experience, which includes mooncake and tea sampling, tea appreciation with tea master Mr. Lincoln Han (on 7 September), a TCM talk by expert Physician Eric Tan (on 14 September), a DIY Mid-Autumn lantern session, light refreshments, and goodies worth S$76.20. Sounds like a good plan? Buy your tickets here.

#2: A SUNFLOWER SOJOURN AT CHANGI AIRPORT

If you’re looking for a no-cost way to immerse yourself in artistic floral displays, head to Changi Airport for the ongoing “A Sunflower Sojourn” event, running until 30 September 2024. Admire over 5,000 sunflowers with more than 10 varieties, including the pastel pink Strawberry Blonde and red and yellow Florenza, which are found across all four terminals. Check out these displays at Terminal 1 Central Piazza (Transit),Terminal 2 Departure Hall Centre (Public), Terminal 2 Departure North Check-in Rows 3-4 (Public), Terminal 2 Departure North Check-in Rows 9-10 (Public),Terminal 3 Departure Hall Centre (Public), Terminal 3 Crystal Garden (Transit),Terminal 3 Departure North Jewel Linkway (Public), and Terminal 4 Departure Hall Centre (Public).

Image Credits: Image Credits: facebook.com/changiairport

The floral joy extends outdoors to the Hub and Spoke Cafe, where you can indulge in sunflower-infused yogurt soft serve and butter toast. While art lovers such as myself can enjoy the replica of Vincent Van Gogh’s sunflower painting in the Departure Hall of Terminal 2.

#3: SOUND BATH BY HEALING HARMONIES

Let’s put an end to your stressful daily grind by joining the Healing Harmonies’ 60-minute sound bath experience! Happening on 7 September 2024 at 10 Selegie Road, this sound bath session is priced at S$38.00 per person. A sound bath is a meditative experience where attendees are soaked in sound waves, creating a unique experience. Even if you’ve never tried it before, this could be just what you need to rediscover peace as the soothing vibrations can quiet the mind and relax the body.

Ready to be completely relaxed? Grab your general admission ticket here.

#4: ART OF THE BRICK

Are you curious to find out what Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or Van Gogh’s Starry Night would look like if these artworks are made out of LEGO? Discover these and more at the “Art of the Brick” exhibition happening now at Singapore Expo. This globally renowned showcase features over 150 LEGO sculptures by contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, who transforms simple LEGO bricks into intricate masterpieces.

Image Credits: facebook.com/artofthebrickexpo

Kids can spot the 6-metre-long T-Rex skeleton and unleash their creativity at the interactive play and build area. What are you waiting for? Tickets start at S$14.90 for residents and S$18.90 for tourists. Get yours here.

#5: GARDENS BY THE BAY’S MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL LANTERNS

For a magical and free experience, visit Gardens by the Bay’s Mid-Autumn Festival! The Gardens are transformed into a mythical wonderland with picturesque paths lined with lanterns until 22 September 2024. Enjoy larger-than-life lantern displays, some inspired by iconic playgrounds, as well as Singapore’s largest-ever flower carpet. You see, this year’s festivities pay tribute to the country’s rich heritage. Expect performances, games, and street food, which can be best enjoyed with your family or friends.

Image Credits: facebook.com/gardensbythebay

#6: MOLLY’S ANNIVERSARY  STATUES POP-UP

Molly, the beloved character created by artist Kenny Wong in 2006, is celebrating her first-ever anniversary with a statues pop-up at Bugis Junction – Malay Street, Level 1. Open until 22 September 2024, this pop-up features a thematic display inspired by Molly’s Classical Retro Series collection.

Fans can enjoy a walkthrough of Molly’s archival collections for free and shop for exclusive merchandise such as scented candles, blind boxes, fridge magnets, and a limited edition first-anniversary statue. Oh, a friendly reminder! Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the life-sized Molly sculptures before you leave. And if you’re willing to spend more than the budget, a minimum purchase gives you the chance to participate in creating your own Silk-Screen printed tote bag* (*Terms and Conditions apply, with limited stocks and selected date and timeslots only).

Image Credits: facebook.com/popmartsg

Create wonderful memories with these budget-friendly activities this September!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

Read More...

9 newly opened F&B restaurants to visit within 600 m from Gangnam Station in Seoul, South Korea

Gangtan food

Want to dine in Gangnam style while in Korea?

Here’s the list you need for the latest newly opened F&B restaurants to visit within 600 m from Gangnam Station.

Save this for later!

파머스포케 강남역점 | Farmer’s Poke

Farmer's Poke

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/bitnalog_

Opening hours:

10 am to 9 pm (Daily; Last order at 8.30 pm)

Prices: Starting from 10,800 KRW (approx. 10.55 SGD) for their poke selection

Address: 6 Teheran-ro 4-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, Basement 1, No. 119

Distance: 132 m from Exit 1 of Gangnam Station

담원순대 강남직영점 | Damwon Soondae

Damwon Soondae

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/nada5333

Opening hours:

9.20 am to 10 pm (Monday to Friday; Last order at 9.20 pm)

9.20 am to 9 pm (Saturday & Sunday; Last order at 8.20 pm)

Prices: 10,000 KRW (approx. 9.77 SGD) for their soondae bowl

Address: 34 Teheran-ro 4-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, 1st Floor, No. 101

Distance: 269 m from Exit 3 of Gangnam Station

호랑이 다이닝 | Horangi Dining

Horangi Dining

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/min_154

Opening hours:

Closed on Saturdays & Sundays

11 am to 12 am (Monday to Friday; Break time from 3 to 5 pm; Last orders at 2.30 pm & 11.30 pm)

Prices: from 12,000 KRW (approx. 11.72 SGD)

Address: 28 Teheran-ro 14-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, 1st Floor

Distance: 572 m from Exit 3 of Gangnam Station

모닥스낵 강남358타워점 | Modak Snack

Opening hours:

Closed on Sundays

11 am to 9 pm (Monday to Saturday; Break time from 3 to 5 pm; Last order at 8 pm)

Prices: 14,000 KRW (approx. 13.67 SGD) for their tteokbokki set for two

Address: 358 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam District, Seoul, 2nd Floor, No. 205

Distance: 132 m from Exit 4 of Gangnam Station

인생제육 강남점 | Insaeng Jeyuk

Insaeng Jeyuk

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/2nang

Opening hours:

9 am to 2 am (Daily)

Prices: 10,000 KRW (approx. 9.77 SGD) for their signature ‘Insaeng Jeyuk Bokkeum’

Address: 9 Yeoksam-ro 5-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, 1st Floor

Distance: 431 m from Exit 4 of Gangnam Station

더몰트하우스 강남역점 | The Malt House

Opening hours:

11 am to 12 am (Daily; Break time from 3.30 to 5 pm; Last order at 11 pm)

Prices: 18,000 KRW (approx. 17.57 SGD) for their plate of Aglio e Olio

Address: 9 Seocho-daero 73-gil, Seocho District, Seoul, 1st & 2nd Floor

Distance: 183 m from Exit 9 of Gangnam Station

주신당 강남 | Zooshindang

Opening hours:

11 am to 2 am (Monday to Saturday)

5 pm to 2 am (Sunday)

Prices: from 13,000 KRW (approx. 12.69 SGD) for their main menu

Address: 9 Gangnam-daero 96-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, B1

Distance: 161 m from Exit 11 of Gangnam Station

철길부산집 강남역점 | Cheolgil Busanjib

Cheolgil Busanjib

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/kjmktd2j

Opening hours:

4 pm to 3 am (Monday to Thursday & Sunday; Last order at 2.30 am)

4 pm to 4 am (Friday & Saturday; Last order at 3.30 am)

Prices: 20,000 KRW (approx. 19.53 SGD) for their signature beef tataki

Address: 11-4 Gangnam-daero 96-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul, 1st Floor

Distance: 212 m from Exit 11 of Gangnam Station

강탄 강남역점 | Gangtan

Gangtan

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/kizaki56

Opening hours:

4 pm to 2 am (Monday to Thursday & Sunday; Last order at 1 am)

4 pm to 4 am (Friday & Saturday; Last order at 3 am)

Prices: from 7,000 KRW (approx. 6.82 SGD)

Address: 28-4 Teheran-ro 1-gilGangnam District, Seoul, JWHouse, 2nd Floor

Distance: 227 m from Exit 11 of Gangnam Station

 

Read More...

How Taxes Affect Your Flexible Retirement Annuity Withdrawals

Planning for retirement can feel like a maze. Each turn brings new financial choices. A key factor is knowing how taxes affect your annuity withdrawals. This knowledge is crucial for optimizing your retirement income and ensuring your nest egg lasts as long as possible.

Read on to learn how taxes affect your flexible retirement annuity withdrawals.

Timing of Withdrawals

The timing of your withdrawals can also play a significant role in the tax consequences. By carefully planning when and how much to withdraw, you may be able to minimize the amount of taxes owed on your retirement income.

Flexible retirement annuity plans allow you to choose when and how much you want to withdraw each year. This flexibility can be beneficial for tax planning purposes as well. For example, if you have a lower income and are in a lower tax bracket for one year, it may make sense to withdraw more from your annuity during that time.

Tax-Deferred Growth

The tax on flexible retirement annuity withdrawals depends on if the funds were pre or post-tax. Pre-tax contributions, such as those made to a traditional IRA or 401(k), are taxed at the time of withdrawal. This means that all your withdrawals from these accounts will be subject to income taxes at the current tax rate.

On the other hand, post-tax contributions, also known as Roth contributions, are not taxed upon withdrawal. Be sure to go to Annuity Rates HQ to see the current rates. This can provide significant tax advantages in retirement, as you will not be subject to income taxes on these funds.

Required Minimum Distributions

Also, consider required minimum distributions (RMDs) when planning your annuity withdrawals. Partial withdrawals from your annuity may satisfy your RMD. But, consult a financial advisor to ensure you meet these obligations.

If you fail to take out the required minimum amount each year, you may face steep penalties and taxes on the amount not withdrawn. Keeping track of your RMDs is a vital part of managing your retirement income and avoiding unnecessary taxation.

Impact of State Taxes

Consider state taxes on your flexible retirement annuity withdrawals, along with federal taxes. Each state has its own tax regulations and rates concerning retirement income, which can vary significantly.

Some states, like Florida and Texas, don’t tax withdrawals. Others tax retirement income at varying rates.

Knowing your state’s tax laws can help you withdraw money more efficiently. It might be worthwhile to consult with a local tax expert to ensure your retirement strategy aligns with state-specific laws.

Social Security Benefits

Another key point in retirement planning is your withdrawal from flexible retirement annuities. They may affect your Social Security benefits. Withdrawing large sums from your annuities could raise your income.

This may increase your tax on your Social Security benefits. This is due to the formula used by the IRS to determine how much of your benefits are taxable, based on your combined income.

Balancing your annuity withdrawals with your Social Security can lower your taxes in retirement. A financial advisor can be invaluable. They should know annuity options and Social Security rules. They can help create an effective withdrawal strategy.

Learning About Flexible Retirement Annuity Withdrawals

Understanding the tax implications of flexible retirement annuity withdrawals is crucial for maximizing your retirement income. By considering factors, you can create a comprehensive plan that minimizes your tax burden and ensures your savings last throughout your retirement years.

Be sure to consult with financial experts and stay informed on current tax laws to make the most out of your flexible retirement annuity.

Visit our website and read more.

 

Read More...

The Magnetic Appeal of Labubu, Sonny Angel, & Bag Charms

Whether you’re a Gen Z trendsetter, a millennial fashionista, or simply someone who loves to accessorize, the bag charm craze has something for everyone. Bag charms have become more than just fun trinkets as they’re now essential fashion statements that let us express our unique personalities.

High-end brands like Miu Miu have caught on to the bag charm craze, infusing a touch of humor and whimsy into their designs. Miu Miu’s leather flowers, key tricks, and mini pouches may come with a hefty price tag (from S$605), but they add a dash of personality to one’s bag. And then there’s Sonny Angel and Labubu – two must-have collectible that’s quickly becoming a sensation across Southeast Asia.

Image Credits: miumiu.com/sg

During a recent trip to Bangkok, I couldn’t help but notice the buzz around Pop Mart’s shop. The long queue was a clear sign that Labubu dolls, those quirky little collectibles, have taken Asia by storm. Thailand, in particular, has emerged as a Labubu hotspot, with the largest stock in the region and the first-ever Labubu concept store outside China. The Thai government has even embraced Labubu’s popularity, using it as a tool to boost tourism. A life-sized Labubu mascot dressed in traditional Thai attire made rounds in Bangkok, visiting landmarks and immersing itself in the local culture.

Even Hollywood stars like Anne Hathaway and Dua Lipa, along with K-pop icon Lisa from Blackpink, have been spotted flaunting their bag charms, proving that the strength of this trend.

SONNY ANGEL

Sonny Angel, the pocket-sized dolls that first debuted in 2004, have experienced a resurgence in recent years. These tiny figures, priced between S$12.50 and S$16.50 at local retailers such as Hands and Kinokuniya Book Stores, have become highly sought after. In fact, demand is so high that some rare Sonny Angel are being sold for up to 50 times their original price on platforms like Carousell. Collectors even go the extra mile, purchasing tiny outfits and furniture from Daiso to deck out their Angels in style.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mnimehubcebu

For those looking to show off their collection, DIY keychains or clear PVC display bags are a popular choice and they’re easy on the wallet, too, with prices starting at just S$1.90 on Lazada.

LABUBU

If you’re not yet familiar with Pop Mart, now’s the time to get acquainted. Based in Beijing, Pop Mart specializes in adorable vinyl toys and blind boxes, with a growing fanbase worldwide. Among their standout characters is Labubu, the mischievous creation of artist Kasing Lung. With its pointy ears, cheeky grin, and sharp teeth, Labubu quickly captured hearts and became a must-have collectible.

Originally introduced as part of a group called “The Monsters”, inspired by Nordic fairy tales, Labubu was brought to life through an exclusive licensing deal with Pop Mart in 2019. Since then, Labubu has been released in various formats including keychains, plush toys, vinyl figures, and more.

For those looking to start or expand their Labubu collection, figurines from the Monsters Carnival series range from S$23.53 to S$52.52. Special figurines, like the Labubu Climber Figurine, can fetch up to S$129.90. But with the rise in popularity, it’s crucial to buy from reputable sellers to ensure you’re getting the real deal. The figurines can also be placed in clear PVC display bags and be attached to your bag’s chain.

What’s more? Collectible shows like the Pop Toy Show, often feature limited-edition Labubu dolls such as the Singapore-exclusive Merlion Labubu pendant, which adds an exciting element of surprise to your collection. These shows are a must-visit for anyone looking to snag exclusive pieces before they sell out.

Image Credits: facebook.com/popmartglobal

As someone who’s also excited to jump on the bag charm bandwagon, I totally get the thrill of finding that perfect charm to match one’s style. No matter if you’re drawn to the playfulness of Miu Miu’s designs, the nostalgia of Sonny Angel, or the whimsical world of Labubu, there’s no shortage of options to explore.

Happy decorating!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

 

Read More...

You’ll Love These 5 Affordable Cafes with Free WiFi

Finding the ideal spot to work or study can make all the difference in your productivity. Whether you’re someone who thrives in a busy atmosphere or prefers a quiet nook, there’s something special about working in a cozy cafe. And let’s be honest, free WiFi is non-negotiable.

The good news? You don’t have to settle for the usual suspects like McD’s or Starbs. There are plenty of cafes where you can get your work done, sip on a delicious beverage, and soak up the ambiance. Consider these affordable cafes where you can enjoy free WiFi and a cup of coffee while you work or study.

#1: AN ACAI AFFAIR

Looking for a quiet, work-friendly space? Head to Bukit Timah’s An Acai Affair. This cafe not only offers free WiFi but also provides a serene atmosphere perfect for getting work done without distractions. Plus, the aesthetically pleasing decor makes it a joy to sit down with an acai bowl and dive into your tasks. Prices for these delicious, healthy bowls start at just S$6.90. BTW, my mom is a big fan!

Image Credits: anacaiaffair.com

Location: 617 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269718
Website: anacaiaffair.com

#2: I2 THE WOODS CAFE

With its charming decor and wooden furnishings, i2 The Woods Cafe offers a homely, peaceful ambiance that’s perfect for working or studying. Besides free WiFi and power outlets, you’ll sometimes find events like chess or arts workshops taking place. Enjoy a Piccolo Latte for S$6.50, or try their specialty drinks such as the Floating Iceberg for S$8.45.

Image Credits: facebook.com/p/i2-The-Woods-Cafe-100023430863884

Location: 26 Jalan Kelulut, Singapore 809043
Website: facebook.com/p/i2-The-Woods-Cafe

#3: TWENTY GRAMMES

If you love a minimalistic, industrial vibe, Twenty Grammes in Kampong Glam is your go-to spot. Known for its gelato swirls, waffles, and cakes, this cafe is also a haven for those looking to work in a relaxed environment with free WiFi. Sip on a single espresso shot for S$3.50, or indulge in a Matcha Latte for S$6.00. Pair it with a Salted Caramel Brownie (S$4.50) or a Peanut Butter Walnut Banana Toast (S$8.00) for a complete treat during a work session.

Image Credits: facebook.com/twentygrammes

Location: #01-01, 753 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198721
Website: facebook.com/twentygrammes

#4: CLAP CAFE

Gather your coworkers or friends for a productive day at Clap Cafe. This quaint spot offers a designated section where you can work and discuss without interruptions. After a brainstorming session, recharge with a signature drink starting at S$8, a slice of in-house made cake, or a cup of loose leaf tea starting at S$6. Coffee here starts at a reasonable S$5.

Image Credits: instagram.com/clapcafe.sg

Location: #01-28, Waterloo Centre, 261 Waterloo Street, Singapore 180261
Website: instagram.com/clapcafe.sg

#5: TWENTY EIGHT CAFE

Tucked away along the quiet stretch of Wilkie Road, Twenty Eight Cafe has been a crowd favorite since 2018. This bright and airy cafe offers plenty of natural light, making it an ideal workspace. It’s spacious enough for group projects, yet still cozy for solo digital nomads.

Affordable coffee options start at S$4.90 for a shot of espresso. You’ll also find fresh juices, cold-brewed tea, smoothies, and milkshakes on the menu. To fuel your work session, dig into a hearty brunch or snack on finger foods like fries and churros, starting from S$8.

Location: #01-06, 28 Wilkie Rd, Singapore 228051
Website: facebook.com/TwentyEightCafe

Image Credits: unsplash.com

These cafes offer the perfect blend of ambiance, affordability, and that all-important free WiFi, ensuring you can work or study in comfort without being broke.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...